Kano court threatens contempt action against senior police officer
Kano State High Court Issues Warning to Police Official Over Court Order Violation
KANO, Nigeria — The Kano State High Court has issued a stern warning to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Babagana Bukar regarding his compliance with a court order related to a property dispute. Justice Aisha Mahmoud cautioned that Bukar may face contempt proceedings if he continues to ignore the court’s directives.
The proceedings centered on a case concerning House No. QA-270, located in Panisau, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State. The lawsuit was filed by Abba Shittu Sharubutu against Isiyaku Auwalu, the Nigeria Police Force, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 1, ACP Bukar, and Inspector Dauda Usman, the investigating officer.
Court documents indicate that on April 14, 2026, Justice Yusuf Ubale granted an interim injunction after hearing from the applicant’s attorney, Barrister Muhammad Kelechi Nwabueze. The injunction mandated all parties to maintain the current state of the property until the court rules on the motion.
Furthermore, the court ordered that all related documents be served through the appropriate police authority prior to the next hearing.
During the most recent hearing, Justice Mahmoud expressed concern over Bukar’s apparent noncompliance with the standing court order. Allegations suggest that despite the directive to maintain the status quo, the senior police officer compelled the occupants of the property to vacate.
Justice Mahmoud emphasized the serious implications of disregarding a court order, underscoring that such actions could undermine the judiciary’s authority. She warned Bukar that continued disobedience could result in his imprisonment for contempt.
“Disobedience of this court’s order will not be tolerated. ACP Babagana Bukar risks being committed to prison for contempt if he continues to disregard the directive,” Justice Mahmoud stated.
The court has adjourned the case to July 13, 2026, for further consideration of the motion. It reiterated that future failures to comply with court orders could lead to similar contempt proceedings, with potential for imprisonment if warranted.
